Gift ideas for friends who own pets

Before any purchase, a few simple pointers help avoid mistakes: the species and size of the animal, its age (puppy, adult, senior), its character (shy, playful, independent), and any food allergies. Asking those around them discreetly is often more reliable than banking on the element of surprise.

Enrichment toys, food puzzles, licking mats and treat dispensers stimulate the animal and keep it usefully occupied when left alone. Brands such as Trixie, KONG or Nina Ottosson offer several levels of difficulty; for a puppy or a beginner dog, it is better to start easy.

On the accessories side, an ergonomic harness is a useful replacement for a classic collar on long walks, a lead of 5 to 10 metres suits exploratory outings, and a brush suited to the coat type makes grooming simpler. Useful things make good gifts, provided they are of lasting quality.

Several French artists offer commissioned portraits from a photograph, in watercolour, digital drawing or as a plush sculpture, with a lead time of several weeks to plan for. A gift card for grooming, a quality boarding kennel or a dog behaviour class is also a service to an overstretched owner, while directly benefiting the animal.

An orthopaedic memory-foam cushion relieves the joints of older animals, generally from 7-8 years old for a medium-sized dog, earlier for large breeds. For a heated blanket, check for NF EN 60335 certification, which attests to compliance with European electrical standards.

Several commercial ranges offer CBD oils or treats for dogs and cats. No veterinary marketing authorisation has been granted by the ANMV for a CBD product intended for animals: sale remains possible so long as no therapeutic purpose is claimed, but without an official veterinary framework. A vet may prescribe CBD off-authorisation, under their own responsibility, within the therapeutic cascade provided for by European regulation 2019/6.

Wordings such as "pain relief", "for arthritis" or "for separation anxiety" remain prohibited for these products; only a vocabulary of comfort or general wellbeing is allowed. Before giving such a product, ask the animal's own vet for advice and check the supplier's certificate of analysis.

CBD is not a veterinary medicine. In case of persistent anxiety or pain in your animal, consult a vet.

Can you give CBD to a dog without veterinary advice?

It is not unlawful for a product labelled "for animals" with no therapeutic claim, but it is inadvisable: no veterinary authorisation exists, and the advice of the animal's own vet remains essential, particularly if a treatment is under way.

What is the average budget for a pet gift?

From €15 for an occupation toy or quality treats to more than €150 for an orthopaedic cushion or a premium grooming session. Relevance matters more than the amount spent.

Are monthly themed boxes a good gift?

Yes, as a way of discovering new products without committing to a large quantity. Check the cancellation terms, as some boxes renew automatically.

Should you give a puppy or a kitten as a gift?

No. Adopting an animal is a 10 to 20 year commitment and must be a personal decision, never a surprise. Several charities in fact refuse adoptions presented as a gift.